Archived publication
This publication is no longer current or has been superseded.
What is climate change?
Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide act like the outside covering of a greenhouse, trapping heat from the sun. Without these essential gases our planet would be cold like Mars.
Humans contribute to the production of greenhouse gases through activities like driving cars and trucks, farming, burning coal, and cutting down trees.
These activities are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere, causing Earth not only to heat up, but to heat up at a faster rate than ever before.
This process is often called ‘global warming’ but it is better to think of it as ‘climate change’ because it is likely to bring about more extreme events – floods, storms, cyclones, droughts and landslips – rather than an increase in temperature alone.
Switch your lightbulbs to energy efficient bulbs – available at any supermarket or DIY store – to help reduce the CO2 emissions produced through making electricity.
Take action tips
Getting out and about
Around 18 percent of New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transport, and most of these are from privately-owned cars. Cut back on the CO2 you produce and cut your fuel bill.
- Get fit. Walk, cycle or use public transport instead of your car.
- ‘Choke the smoke’: have your car serviced regularly. Check out: www.chokethesmoke.govt.nz
- Remove your car roof rack when not in use, and reduce your fuel bill by up to five percent.
- Go easy on the accelerator to reduce fuel use.
- Keep your tyres inflated at the right pressure.
- Clear out your car boot – the extra weight will add to your fuel bill.
- Car pool and share the fuel bill with friends or workmates.
- Buying a new car? Choose a fuel-efficient, low-polluting model. Check out: www.fuelsaver.govt.nz
